Gospel Legend John P. Kee Releases New Single “Play Yo Tambourine” Following Battle with Prostate Cancer

Gospel music icon John P. Kee has released his new single “Play Yo Tambourine,” marking a triumphant return to music following a two-year battle with significant health challenges. The single, released on September 26, 2025, through Kee Music Group and Tyscot Records, is available on major streaming platforms including Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, and Audiomack.

Health Battle

In January 2024, Kee was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Weeks later, he was hospitalized with necrotizing fasciitis, a potentially lethal flesh-eating bacterial infection. The infection required five surgeries and an extended recovery period during which Kee had to learn how to walk again. After completing his cancer treatments and recovering from the infection, Kee returned to the studio and stage with renewed energy.

Inspiration Behind “Play Yo Tambourine”

The new single carries dual inspiration for Kee. The upbeat track is a nod to the 803Fresh “Boots on the Ground” line-dance movement that has gained popularity in church communities. The song invites listeners to leap from their seats in celebration and play their tambourines.

For Kee personally, the tambourine holds deeper significance. He equates the playing of the tambourine to the ringing of the bell that signaled the completion of his cancer treatments, transforming the instrument into a symbol of victory and healing.

Release Details

“Play Yo Tambourine” was released as a two-track single featuring both the original version and a “Church Version.” Each version runs approximately 5-6 minutes, with the complete single totaling 11 minutes. The track is available in digital format across all major music platforms.

The song is produced by Kee Music Group in partnership with Tyscot Records. An official music video for “Play Yo Tambourine” has also been released, showcasing the infectious energy of the track.

Album Inclusion

“Play Yo Tambourine” serves as the closing track on Kee’s album “Throwback: An Evening with John P. Kee, Part 1,” which was released on Black Friday, November 28, 2025. The project is available in both digital and CD formats. The album features 17 tracks spanning 1 hour and 5 minutes, including 15 live recordings and two new studio cuts.

The album’s lead single, “Church Medley,” has been climbing gospel radio charts. The medley blends five of Kee’s beloved early hits: “I Believe,” “I Won’t Let Go,” “It Will Be Alright,” “He’ll Welcome Me,” and “Thank You Lord (He Did It All).” The track features contributions from gospel artists Zacardi Cortez and Tallie Rodgers.

Other notable tracks on the album include the traditional hymn “Lily of the Valley” and the bluesy “We Made It.” Throughout the project, Kee features his New Life Community Choir and showcases collaborations with protégés including LeJeune Thompson, Calvin Rodgers, Crystal Smith, and Ladonna Hairston Mole.

Forthcoming Music Projects

Kee is currently developing several new music projects. He is working on a series of tribute albums honoring his musical mentor, Bishop Rance Allen, who passed away in 2020. Kee previously released “Tribute To A Legend: Rance Allen, Chapter Two” in 2024.

The forthcoming Rance Allen tribute project will feature new interpretations of some of the Rance Allen Group’s best-loved songs. The first single from this upcoming tribute is a remake of Allen’s signature song “Something About the Name Jesus,” which originally appeared on Kirk Franklin’s 1998 album “The Nu Nation Project.” Kee’s version features samples of Allen’s voice along with vocals from gospel artists Melvin Crispell, Lewis Sky, and Zacardi Cortez.

Kee embraced and looked up to Allen as a second father and musical mentor after his own father died in the 1980s. The tribute albums represent a personal mission to celebrate and preserve Allen’s musical legacy.

Recording and Tour

The “Throwback” album was recorded over the course of a year while Kee underwent cancer treatment and recovered from the bacterial infection. The recording included stops in over two dozen cities across the United States. The tour concluded with a video recording at Harbison Theatre at Midlands Technical College in Irmo, South Carolina, in January 2025.

Kee has returned to a rigorous touring schedule following his recovery. He has been performing across the country, bringing his classic hits and new material to audiences.

Career Recognition

In 2025, Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI) honored Kee with its Trailblazer of Gospel Music Award, recognizing his four decades of contributions to gospel music as a singer, songwriter, producer, and talent scout.

John P. Kee has been singing professionally since his teens. He helped shape the sound of 1990s urban choir music with hits including “Jesus is Real,” “Show Up,” and “Standing in the Need.” His album “Not Guilty” is certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Over the course of his career, Kee has amassed over 300 million digital streams, eight Grammy Award nominations, and numerous Stellar Gospel Music Awards.

In addition to his music career, Kee has served as pastor of New Life Fellowship Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, for two decades.

Availability

“Play Yo Tambourine” is currently available for streaming and download on:

• Apple Music
• Spotify
• YouTube Music
• Audiomack
• Amazon Music
• Tidal

The album “Throwback: An Evening with John P. Kee, Part 1” is available in digital format on all major streaming platforms and in physical CD format through Tyscot Records and select retailers.

For more information about John P. Kee, upcoming tour dates, and new music releases, fans can follow him on social media platforms.